If the shoe fits...

[Chrissy_b123]

Morning all,

We often see posts about new shoes, old faithfuls and such, and it seems that the shoe can make quite a difference.

From searching through past posts, here is what we can conclude about footwear:

They don't need to be expensive

A gait analysis can really help, and is often free if you pick the right shop

Old shoes deserve a proper burial

New shoes must be bright and flashy, and drooled over

And a double layer running sock is a good investment

So my question is - what is important to you in a shoe, and how do you know when it is time to get new foot friends?

[Curlygurly2 Graduate]

I knew my last pair were on their way when I began to get shin pain again...they had only done 300K, I returned them...

[Hidden]

I don't think I've run enough to know what's right or wrong for me. My current shoes are some basic Puma jobs I got to do C25K with, working on the principle that I wouldn't spend too much so when I gave up, it wouldn't be a big loss!

Of course, now I'm obsessed with running and know that at some point I'm going to want to get some better shoes. I think I may need something a bit more specialised as I have flat arches, and while I'm not noticing any issues with my current shoes, I get the feeling with more mileage I might start feeling it.

[misswobble Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Haydn it sounds like a job for Sweatshop or your nearest dedicated running shop where the shop assistants are runners themselves. They also have physios etc that do the job in their spare time as they like everyone in the land to be safely shod

I have worn out a pair of Nike Pegasus. Did over 500 miles in them and felt the spring in them had gone flat. They're still ok for walking and knocking about in though.

You need half a size bigger than your regular shoe as your feet swell when you run. A shoe that has a comfy bit round the ankle and that fits snugly but not too high up or you'll get a blister. I like mine wide in the toe box so my toes aren't squashed. They should feel completely smooth on the inside with nothing that irritates. Also get the right shoe for the right conditions. If you run trails then buy trail shoes

I hope you get sorted out. Have fun trying them on